Imphal, May 03: With the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1991 declaring May 3 as World Press Freedom Day, Editors' Forum, Manipur organized a function at State Guest House to celebrate the occasion today.

The 14th World Press Day is being observed under the theme "Media in Conflict Areas and in Countries in Transition".

Speaking as chief guest, Information and Public Relations Commissioner P Bharat Singh expressed concern over the repeated interference into the functioning of the mediapersons from time to time in several countries with the local situation also not very different from such interventions.

The role of media in a democratic country should never be undermined nor compromised as it is the only medium to air grievances of the general public, Bharat said while mooting maximum liberty to movement of news-persons.

As newspaper editorials reflect the voices of the people, such comments/writings provide vital information to those at the helm of affairs and help them to pursue policies for the welfare of the public.

It is an undeniable fact that Governments keenly take note of the suggestions of news-paper establishments while framing or advocating policies, he added.

In his presidential address Salam Bharat Bhusan who is also the Forum president fervently appealed to all concerned not to interfere in the functioning of the media and allow it to function freely without fear.

DIPR Director Aleng AS Shimray speaking as guest of honour urged the media organizations to edit where-ever necessary and avoid sensationalizing news report at all cost as freedom of press should not be interpreted as freedom from responsibility.

It is also essential to establish contact with relevant authorities to ascertain facts on any matter instead of printing news items without authenticating the matter, mooted the Director.

Among various resource persons who also spoke on the occasion ISTV News Editor K Madhumangol Sharma quoted the UN Secretary General as saying "Freedom of press is the right to protect right of others" and exhorted the media community to execute their assignments diligently and honestly inspite of hindrances.

The other resource persons who delivered speeches in connection with the observance theme are BB Sharma of AIR Imphal and DIPR Joint Director Meghachandra Kongbam.

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